This Morning presenter Josie Gibson has stunned fans with a dramatic five-stone weight loss, achieved through a dedicated lifestyle overhaul and a unique historical experiment, all while firmly rejecting the use of weight loss injections.
The 1970s Diet Experiment
The 40-year-old TV star's journey to her current size has been documented in her new Channel 5 programme, 'The 1970s Diet: Could It Work for You?'. In the two-part series, which aired on Wednesday and Thursday at 9pm, Josie immersed herself in the eating, exercise, and fashion trends of the decade.
Guided by a nutritionist, she followed an authentic 1970s meal plan. This involved eating smaller portions and classic foods from the era, such as boiled potatoes, liver, and spam. Josie confessed to The Mirror that she was committed to showing the full experiment, stating, "If I'm taking on this experiment, then I'm showing it all... If you don't show the experiment, what's the point?"
A History of Fluctuation and a Natural Approach
Josie has been open about her past weight struggles, having previously shrunk from a size 20 to a size eight in 2014, launching workout DVDs like 30 Second Slim before the weight returned. Despite years of yo-yo dieting, she has consistently insisted she would never turn to surgical shortcuts or fat-burning jabs.
Writing candidly on social media about her latest transformation, she emphasised a back-to-basics method: "I didn't get a gastric bypass; I got off my big a**e, moved more, ate less and educated myself on what I was stuffing into my body." She explained her aversion to weight loss injections, saying, "I don't want to mess around with my body, I like everything natural, I always go down the natural route."
The Plan Behind the Physique
Beyond the 1970s experiment, Josie previously detailed her adherence to the 'Do The Unthinkable' plan from MuscleFood. This 12-week programme provided delivered meals, workout plans, and support. She followed it for six days a week, allowing herself one 'cheat meal' on her day off, cautioning against undoing hard work with a full-day binge.
In a surprising revelation during her TV show, fitness tests showed that even at her heavier weight, she maintained a "superior fitness rate" due to her consistent exercise habits. The star also revisited 1970s fashion, calling it her "favorite era," though she was dismayed to learn about modern 'vanity sizing' when trying on vintage clothes.
It was revealed in 2016 that Josie had a tummy tuck procedure, which removed 6lbs and 13 inches of loose skin. She told New magazine at the time that she woke up to a "flat" stomach, though noted she was heavier post-operation due to a lack of exercise, estimating herself at a size 12.
Josie's journey highlights a commitment to natural, sustained effort over quick fixes, proving that her stunning new physique is the result of old-fashioned determination and a fascinating historical detour.